Major Changes To Google Maps API

22/ November

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The Google Maps API has changed. What you need to know, and do.

Last summer, Google launched the Google Maps Platform, updating many of its products. While the new platform provides greater flexibility, transparency and control, it also brings changes to products and pricing.

Why do you need to upgrade your Google Maps API?

If your website map is displaying “For development purposes only” text across the map as in the image below, it’s definitely time for you to upgrade your Google Maps. But even if it isn’t, you should upgrade the API to avoid errors and a degraded user experience.

Overview of some of the changes

Streamlined products

Google’s 18 individual APIs have been simplified into three core products—Maps, Routes and Places. The new updates will work with your existing code—no changes required.

One simplified pricing plan

Google has merged their Standard and Premium plans to form one pay-as-you go pricing plan. Developers will receive the first $200 of monthly usage for free and it’s estimated that most users will have monthly usage that will keep them within the free tier.

Automatically scale as you grow

From June 11 onward, you’ll need a valid API key and a Google Cloud Platform billing account to access our core products. As your business grows our plan will scale with you.

Upgrade today

To avoid website errors or service interruptions, please go to Google’s Get Started page to update your Google Maps API. If you need help on how to create, secure and set up billing, please check out Google’s YouTube videos

And if you’re not sure what you need to do, or don’t have the time to do it, we’re here to help.